Driving long distances in a natural part of living in Canada. Where I am from, sometimes you can be driving for several hours without coming near a community. In the winter if something were to happen (going off road, accident) are you prepared to spend the night in your car, Or maybe walk a long distance for help? This blog is to highlight what I have in my car for long drives (winter) and to get you thinking about your own.
In the trunk of my car I have two milk crates tied onto anchor points that carry all of my essential car stuff. I.e. oil, windshield wash, fuses etc. Also in the milk crates are a few things I have in case the worst happens.
- Two rope, eye bolt and a steel knuckle: These items, in the event you do go off the road will enable any passer by to latch on, and hopefully tow you out of a ditch. I am after using this twice in on two different occasions (winter) where slippery or white out conditions put me into a snow bank. By having this with me anyone with a 4x4 was able to pull me out.
-First aid kit: First aid kit is good to have on you year round. Not only does it able to provide you with bandages and smaller items as you see fit, if you do come upon an accident, or are in one yourself, a properly built first aid kit may save your life. Stock it with some items you think are handy and put it in. Don't forget to update yearly and check for expired items.
-Extra clothing: I have a two pairs of wool socks, a pair of long johns, a thermal long sleeve shirt, extra mitts, and extra tuque stuffed in the car in case I or someone else may need it. I believe this may speak for itself.
-Backpack: The backpack houses the extra cloths, but in the event you need to walk somewhere the backpack can comfortably take what you need to bring with you such as....
-Steel water bottle: Used for carrying extra water, and you can melt snow in it (if you had to).
-Rain jacket: It may be winter but damp conditions can bring on wet snow. Getting wet in the winter overnight can lead to your demise.
-5-6 Tealight candles and matches: If you are stuck in your car overnight, by lighting one little tea light candle can provide enough heat to keep the frost away and to keep you a little warmer.
-Blanket: Always have a blanket in the car for a romantic night or if you really need it.
-Fire extinguisher: Now this may be a bit excessive, but I had an extra one around the house so figure I could just put it in the car. Again I think this speaks for itself.
Other things I usually ensure to have is water (1L or more) and some hard candies. The candies will last a long time and if required will give you some sugars to boost moral and calories for the night.
So whats in your car?
